Impact Story: Jack

A cornerstone of all AFS programs is support. Families and individuals who choose to foster or adopt a child or teen through AFS is guaranteed a compassionate and supportive team that guides them every step of the way.

A cornerstone of all AFS programs is support. Jack* is a twelve-year-old youth in foster care with severe autism and OCD, and he has been living with the Claxton* Family for three years. This past Spring, Jack was playing basketball in the driveway when he fell and hurt his hip. Mr. Claxton took Jack to the doctor where X-rays revealed a fracture that would require immediate hospitalization and surgery. The Claxton’s knew Jack would be unable to stay in the hospital alone, so Mr. Claxton volunteered to stay with Jack day and night. Louis*, Jack’s caseworker, also insisted on going to the hospital every day to provide respite for Mr. Claxton and to oversee Jack’s care.

After three days and four nights in the hospital, Jack was released. Mr. and Mrs. Claxton continue to take Jack to physical therapy which can be both behaviorally and physically taxing. Louis is readily available and insists the Claxtons lean on him for emotional and respite support. In return, Louis’ AFS team provides him with an outlet to relieve his stress so he doesn’t experience “compassion fatigue.” The Claxtons and Louis are encouraged as Jack continues his journey through recovery. He’s even started playing “horse” again in the driveway.

Families and individuals who choose to foster or adopt a child or teen through AFS is guaranteed a compassionate and supportive team that guides them every step of the way. If you’re interested in learning more about fostering or adopting, just click here.

*Names changed to protect identities